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  • P16 Open Evening

    Published 02/12/24

    Year 11 recently spent a week getting involved with Sixth Former activities to experience what tutor time was like in Year 12. It was a great opportunity for us to experience a typical week for a student at Heston. On Wednesday, the Sixth Formers came to visit us in our group. It was good as it involved the whole class playing a ‘Sixth Form Bingo’. As we all had the same sheet, we ended up in a tie! It was useful to be able to ask people who are directly experiencing Sixth Form as they had good knowledge and experience of Sixth Form life. 

    Toby Brown [11W]

    Sixth Form experience week was an interesting perspective on life after GCSEs. Firstly, we had an assembly on Monday delivered by Mr Naqvi, who posed some relevant questions for us to reflect on when picking our next steps. We also did some other activities in tutor time during the week which revealed the level of work we would experience in Year 12 tutor time. On Thursday afternoon it was very useful to see all the different opportunities available in the Hall with my teachers. I was able to see a wide range of subjects as well as the different levels of qualifications available. This will help me make informed decisions for next year. 

    Reva Kumar [11W]

     

    For me, the most useful part of Sixth Form Experience Week was being able to speak first hand with some current Year 12 students. For example, I was able to discuss and hear about the opportunity to do an EPQ on top of my three A-level choices. Before that, I didn’t know that would be an option for me in Year 12. I’m looking forward to learning more about this qualification. Being able to attend the Open Evening was a helpful experience as I had some 1:1 time with my teachers and to learn about subjects I’m not taking at GCSE but may be interested in for A-levels. Overall, this experience helped me decide on my next steps for returning to Heston for my A-levels, although, I’m still deciding what subjects to take!

    Sagal Hassan [11O]

           

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  • British History Museum Trip

    Published 02/12/24

    My experience of the visit to the British History Museum was amazing. There were many different statues that depicted different countries and their customs, along with clothes, belongings and, at one point, projections on the walls telling a story. The thing I really liked about this experience was learning about so many different religious pieces, such as a turban from early Sikhism.

    Sanvi Dhal [9P]

    On this trip to the British Museum I saw many things, but the one that really interested me was the mummies and the fact that they were the actual bodies of the Kings. It interested me because it was amazing to see how they were wrapped up and in their original coffins from Ancient Egyptian times.

    Brandon Amblavaney [9P] 

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  • Jack the Ripper Tour

    Published 29/11/24

    It was a cold and dark evening on Wednesday, 27 November, when a group of staff and students ventured into the gloomy streets of London to learn all about the gruesome stories behind the events surrounding the Whitechapel murders and the theories about the infamous Jack the Ripper. This trip was arranged as a reward for students at the Psychology and Criminology Society and, thanks to Joe Scott and his excellent and dramatic delivery of the tour, it was a huge success.

    Our expert guide led us through the trails that police officers of the day followed, and gave us a glimpse into the lives of the Ripper’s unfortunate victims. Our students were captivated, engaged and impeccably behaved throughout and came away from this experience with a real enthusiasm to learn more about the crimes through independent research.

    A huge thank you to Mr Scott, for his expert knowledge and very skilful delivery of the tour! Thanks also, to Mr Green and Mr Evarrete for giving up their valuable time and accompanying us on this extremely successful trip.

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  • Sky Tours

    Published 27/11/24

    “Participating in the Sky trip was an incredibly enjoyable and educational experience. I had the opportunity to act as a director, honing my skills in green screen editing and filming. The advanced equipment we used was impressive and added to the overall excitement of the experience. Watching the process unfold in real-time was fascinating, especially when I observed a professional news reporter at work. Additionally, meeting the Head of Sky Sports and having the chance to ask him questions was a highlight, providing valuable insights into the industry.” 

    Noor Waris [12C]

    Upon arrival at Sky, we were first introduced to staff members who helped us find our way around, as well as assist us with certain tasks we had to do. We had to sit in our arranged groups and then assigned specific roles to do once we reached the Studio. We made our way to the Studio where we were greeted by a member of staff who played us a short introduction video and answered any questions we had. We were introduced to Sky's history and its role in the media industry. We then saw the rooms in which the intricate process of live news, which required a lot of precision and coordination. As we headed back into the Studios, we chose our topics of interest to speak about, we prepared our speeches and then recorded our video. When that was done, we edited the video to our liking, which we then watched as we came back to the Centre. As a whole, I would agree that the Sky trip was an enriching opportunity to enhance our communication skills, as well as our vocational and confidence skills. It enhanced our knowledge in this particular sector of the world and allowed us to have a deeper understanding of the media industry.

    Natalia Baranowska [12D]

    The recent trip to Sky proved to be a memorable and fun experience. The opportunity to explore surroundings I was unfamiliar with, which allowed for broadened perspectives. I would argue the trip helped me come out of my comfort zone, as I was confidently speaking on camera as a news reporter. The trip also provided valuable time for relaxation away from my daily routines. I'm thankful I was offered a place on this trip, because I personally feel like I've picked up a lot from it, such as the ability to work in a team under pressure and being able to improve my time management skills.

    Sarah Khadar [12C]

      

     

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  • Girls' Football Match

    Published 22/11/24

    Heston vs Springwest 1:0

    The match ended with a 1-0 win to Heston. This was the girls’ first game out together, where they showed excellent team spirit and work ethic. The defenders played a crucial role in the game, with Angela Gurung shutting down attackers and clearing the ball.

    Diana and Laara showed some fantastic skills in the middle of the field playing the ball off to Dunya where she found the back of the net mid-way through second half.

    From defence right up to the forwards, each girl played their part in the game, using communication and teamwork to drive each other on. They face Brentford in their next game in two weeks.

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  • Year 13 Boys run Half Marathon

    Published 22/11/24

    On Sunday, 10 November at 09:30, we started our half-marathon and 10K races in Victoria Park. Dino and I had encouraged the rest of our friends to take up running for its many benefits. About a month before our race, we convinced Arun to sign up for the 10K. Arun later encouraged Prabhdeep and Jeevan to join as well.

    The inspiration for this half-marathon came from our Head of Year, Miss Forrest, who shared her experience running a half-marathon during an assembly. Her story of grit and discipline motivated us, and right after the assembly, we decided to start preparing for the challenge.

    Since the race was on the other side of London, we woke up around 05:30 and travelled by tube to get there. The race was a huge success, with months of training paying off as each of us reached our personal goals. Dino finished the half-marathon in under 2 hours, while I completed it in 1 hour and 48 minutes. Prabhdeep, Jeevan, and Arun also successfully completed their first 10K races.

    We believe running is valuable for everyone — students and teachers alike. Just like exams, running requires consistent effort and genuine dedication to achieve great results. We hope our experience inspires others to take up running and maybe even try a half-marathon or do their first 5 or 10K race, just as Miss Forrest’s story inspired us.

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  • STEM Industry Insight event at Brentford Football Club

    Published 21/11/24

     

    Thirteen students from Year 9 and Year 10 took part in a SEM Industry Insight day at Brentford Football Club. Professionals from Worley, a Global Engineering and Energy company, delivered presentations, promoting the importance of STEM and career opportunities using these subjects.

    Students also had the opportunity to take part in interactive opportunities, including a STEM challenge which involved designing, creating and testing a wind turbine. Throughout the opportunity, students were able to develop their skills, through team work and communication within small groups. Students presented their designs back in teams to the Worley professionals and used reasoning skills to sell their product. Products made were tested and feedback was given. 

    Ms A Laing [Careers Adviser]

    We went to Brentford Football Club for a day with the Worley Company. Worley is an energy company which is interested in trying to make people more eco-friendly. We were met by several employees of Brentford Community Trust. They explained how they invested in giving something back to their local community. The trip was very exciting. When we arrived, we were shown a presentation explaining what STEM was. We focused on engineering and learnt how to build a windmill; this was done through a game. The winners of the games won a prize, but sadly, I was not on the winning team. However, my team did win two of the rounds. My favourite part was when we spoke to the professionals from Worley about future careers and what we could do to achieve those goals. 

    Fayha Saiyaed [9R]

       

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  • More Able Evening

    Published 15/11/24

    It was delightful to see so many determined students, with a fervent desire to thrive academically attending the More Able Evening. As a keynote speaker, I navigated my Hestonian peers through my GCSE journey: 

    • Including: my revision routine
    • My meticulous choices at home and in class
    • Capitalising on seeking support from teachers
    • how to make the most of mock examinations
    • The ways in which my parents supported me
    • Advice for maintaining positive mental health during this time
    • Extra and super-curricular activities I have engaged in [and some that I engage in now]
    • Useful websites for purchasing revision guides
    • Revision techniques and materials.

    All of this enabled the metamorphosis from mere dreams in my heart to reality sealed in the final envelope.

    Alisha Rizwan [13A]

    I was able to speak at our recent More Able Evening, where I shared my own journey through the GCSE period, discussing the preparation strategies and routines that helped me grow both academically and personally. It was rewarding to talk about how I achieved my grades and I hope everyone left with a better understanding of the resources and techniques that contributed to my success. I also highlighted how the School’s support, through enrichment programs and teacher guidance, motivated me to aim higher and push my boundaries. I think the Evening gave students and parents a clearer idea of the many ways that I, along with past students, were able to succeed and offered some helpful tips.

    Simrit Bharj [12B]

        

        

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  • Homerton College, Cambridge

    Published 15/11/24

    A Memorable Trip to Homerton College, Cambridge

    Our school trip to Homerton College, part of the University of Cambridge, was an eye-opening and exciting experience. The day began with a series of talks about the prestigious university and what it takes to get there. We learnt about the importance of enrichment activities and the specific A levels required for different career paths, which was both informative and inspiring for everyone.

    Afterward, we were treated to a tour of the beautiful Homerton College grounds. It was amazing to walk around such a historic institution and imagine what it would be like to study there one day. To top it off, we got to eat in the college’s canteen, which felt more like fine dining than a typical cafeteria. The food was delicious, and it really gave us a glimpse into student life at Cambridge.

    Next, we participated in an exciting series of complex puzzles. These weren’t just any puzzles! They could be solved in multiple ways, and each solution would produce a card. Once we had the card, we exchanged it for a clue, which helped us work on a larger mystery that was waiting to be solved. It was a lot of fun seeing everyone work together, and one of the groups from Heston Community School was the only one to solve the big mystery! The sense of accomplishment was incredible, and we couldn’t help but feel proud of our school.

    To finish off the day, we took a stroll around Cambridge’s city centre, where we could explore the local shops and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on everything we had experienced at Homerton College.

    The trip was not only a day of fun, but also an inspiring glimpse into the world of higher education and the possibilities that lie ahead.

    Anneka Chumber [10B]

    An unforgettable trip to Cambridge University.

    Visiting Homerton College at Cambridge University was an eye-opening and informative experience which provided me with a glimpse of the life of a student at Cambridge. It began with a brief, engaging introduction from four students who attend Cambridge. I found this particularly helpful as it provided us with the opportunity to ask any questions and queries we had, ranging from life as a student at university, the courses to choose from and adjusting from school to university. We were told about the application process and the difference between extracurricular and super-curricular and how they affect your personal statement. The responses were very honest and helpful. 

    We were then kindly escorted by our guide, Amy, who is a student at Cambridge. We saw The Great Hall, which is where formal dinners are held by candlelight. It looked like something straight out of Harry Potter! Everything about Cambridge seemed so grand and regal, from the vibrant, green grass and the historical aspects of the buildings. Lunch in the dining hall was incredible, the food was lovely, and everyone had amazing table manners. 

    After lunch, we were then guided to the auditorium where we were greeted with an array of different puzzles that we had to solve.  We then split into groups where we had to use our logical thinking skills to solve the escape games under a time limit, which was both rewarding and extremely stressful. The time pressure was very motivating and the satisfaction we felt after solving every puzzle was immense. We were then provided with a series of different clues to try and solve a murder mystery. This was extremely challenging, but out of all twelve teams across three schools, one of Heston’s teams won! 

    A short coach journey later, we arrived in the City Centre, where Amy showed us many of the 31 colleges at Cambridge University. This was a great opportunity again to ask any remaining questions. We saw a matriculation ceremony, which is a formal process to show the new enrolment of a student at a college. The Centre was bustling with cyclists and students. Amongst them, there were punting tours which are a fabulous way to view the riverside and the City Centre. 

    Overall, I had a fantastic experience at Homerton and hope to be able to attend myself in the future. It exposed me to the type of work ethic and atmosphere that I would be surrounded by in pursuing higher education. 

    Thank you to Mr Ghataura as well, who organised this trip and made this experience possible. 

    Diya Khosla [10Y]

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  • Hounslow Council Work Experience programme

    Published 15/11/24

    Five year 10s and Five Year 12s were invited to take part in a week of work experience at the London Borough of Hounslow Council offices. Students took part in employability workshops and were placed into different departments throughout the week. Departments included were, Finance, Legal and Lifelong Skills, Learning and Employment. Students worked towards a presentation throughout the week and then presented their work in front of senior managers at the Council and to the Leader of the Council, Cllr Shantanu Rajawat. The opportunity was invaluable and will contribute towards their life-long journey.

    During my time working at the council, I truly enjoyed the opportunity to engage with the community and contribute to various projects. The experience allowed me to develop valuable skills in communication and teamwork while working alongside dedicated professionals. I appreciated the chance to learn about local governance and how decisions are made that impact residents' lives. Each day brought new challenges, and I found it rewarding to see the positive effects of our work on the community. Overall, it was a fulfilling experience that deepened my understanding of public service.

    Annabella Haji [10R]

    The work experience with the Local Authority was an exciting and eye-opening experience. It showed just how vast and varied the careers within the Local Authority are. A highlight for me was the morning at BYD hearing about the apprenticeship opportunities soon to be available to the young people within the Borough. I was on placement with the 14-19 service, which is a career-focused area. I was given tasks throughout the week relating to statistics in the Borough and also the YSEG bulletin which is sent to young people, careers advisors, teachers and businesses throughout the Borough. One of the articles I wrote was published recently for Green Careers Week and was in relation to my trip to BYD and another relating to my experiences while on placement in the Council is soon to be published.

    Ben Rixon [12A]

    My work experience with the legal team at Hounslow House was invaluable. There I learnt important soft skills, including presentation skills, during my conclusive group project we were assigned during the week. Additionally, I was also able to visit the Hounslow Registry Office and learn about the laws and legislation involved in simple marriage, birth, and death registrations. In conclusion, I gained life experience and had an amazing time!

    Malishqa Kapoor [12A]

    I recently took part in the London Borough of Hounslow Work Experience programme. This was an extremely insightful experience for me as I was able to apply my skills in the workplace and adjust to a new environment. I had the opportunity to work in the Communications department, which is mainly focused on developing and executing marketing approaches to effectively distribute information to residents of our borough. During the week, I wrote a piece that described Hounslow’s upcoming Halloween events to encourage residents to attend during the half-term break. I also managed to go off-site during my placement to visit West Thames College and help vocalise the importance of young people’s involvement in improving our Borough and way of living. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and now have a much more accurate idea of what skills are needed to excel in the workplace. Thank you to Mr. Naqvi and Mrs Laing for making this opportunity possible.

    Alexinho Rosario [12C]

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  • Armistice Day

    Published 15/11/24

    Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day, is observed on 11 November to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in wars, especially in the World Wars. This day marks the end of World War I, when, on the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" in 1918, an armistice ended the fighting. Each year on 11 November, people pause in a moment of silence, wearing poppies as a tribute to those who fought and to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

    One enduring symbol of Remembrance Day is the red poppy. During World War I, red poppies bloomed on the battlefields of Flanders, standing out amid the destruction. These flowers are symbols of life and resilience amongst the graves of fallen soldiers. The red poppy came to symbolise both the beauty of resilience and the blood that had been spilt on the battlefields. It represented remembrance, hope, and a promise that those who had died would not be forgotten. In many countries, wearing a red poppy has become a way to pay tribute and remember the soldiers who gave their lives for peace, and the civilians who lost their lives in the crossfire. 

    Remembrance Day/Armistice Day is important because it ensures that the lessons of the past are not forgotten. By showing respect to the memories of those who served, we remind ourselves of the devastation that war brings and the preciousness of peace. This day reminds us to honour the past and work toward a more compassionate world.

    Our school plays a vital role in recognising and commemorating Armistice Day, helping students understand its significance and bravery of those who served. On 11 November, staff and students observe 2 minutes of silence to commemorate the fallen soldiers. During November, art projects done by students line the walls; portraits of poppies and symbols of peace are hung to remind students that only in the darkest times do the stars shine. By involving students in these activities, our school ensures that we will always remember the sacrifices made, the legacy of Armistice Day and to appreciate the value of peace.

    Tenay Chak [13D]

      

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  • Arsenal vs Chelsea Womens' Football Match

    Published 12/11/24

    A few weeks ago, I was able to watch an unforgettable football match at the Emirates Stadium. My overall experience watching Arsenal Girls vs Chelsea Girls football match was amazing. The atmosphere was electric and the stadium was roaring with tons of spectators who responded to every goal and near miss as if we were at a Champions League match. The stands were packed to capacity with enthusiastic supporters from both sides. Going to this football match made me smile with joy and made me more determined to attend as many matches as possible. Football in general is a fierce and exuberant sport. Overall, my experience was exciting and so enjoyable for a nice day-out. 

    Sonia Arora [8W]

      

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